Live updates: Hezbollah continuously violates ceasefire

CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Dan Caine briefed US President Donald Trump for 45 minutes on Thursday on new plans for possible military action against Iran, two US officials told Axios.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Thursday that it was not reasonable to expect quick results from talks with the United States.

“Expecting to reach a result in a short time, regardless of who the mediator is, in my opinion, is not very realistic," he was quoted as saying by the IRNA news agency.

Meanwhile, a senior official in Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) said any new US attack on Iran, even if limited, would usher in “long and painful strikes" on US regional positions.

At the same time, Iranian Aerospace Force Commander Majid Mousavi was quoted by Iranian media as saying, “We’ve seen what happened to your regional bases, we will see the same thing happen to your warships."

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office earlier on Thursday that Iran is "dying to make a deal," adding that "hopefully it can be worked out very soon."

Asked about the future of negotiations, Trump replied, "Nobody knows what the talks are except myself and a couple of other people."

"I mean, Iran is dying to make a deal. I can only tell you that. I don't want to get into it, but they got - they cannot be nuclear other than that. But they are," he added.

Trump stressed, “The bottom line is for this world, for our country, but certainly for Israel, the Middle East and Europe, much closer, you cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon."

Trump last weekend cancelled a visit by his envoys to Islamabad for talks with Iran. On Wednesday, he told reporters that efforts to bring an end to the war with Iran are continuing through telephone conversations rather than in-person meetings.

The US President’s comments were made after he rejected Iran’s most recent proposal, telling Axios that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

The Iranian proposal rejected by Trump envisions reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities.

Trump on Thursday was to have received a briefing by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper on fresh plans for possible military action against Iran.

US President Donald Trump asserted Thursday that the United States has delivered a devastating blow to Iran’s military infrastructure and leadership, yet stressed that the conflict will not conclude without ironclad assurances that Tehran will never acquire nuclear weapons.

In an extensive interview with Newsmax’s Greta Van Susteren, the president expressed confidence in the success of American actions while emphasizing the need for a more decisive outcome.

“We’ve already won, but I want to win by a bigger margin," Trump said. “We have destroyed their navy, destroyed their air force, destroyed all of their - if you look at their anti-aircraft equipment, their radar equipment, their leadership. Their leadership is destroyed. We’ve destroyed everything."

Trump portrayed Iran as significantly weakened both militarily and economically. He noted that the country’s ability to recover from the damage inflicted has been greatly diminished. “If we leave right now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild, if they ever could rebuild," he said.

Despite these achievements, the president maintained that military success alone is insufficient to secure lasting peace. “But it’s actually not good enough," he said. “We have to have guarantees they will never have a nuclear weapon."

Trump voiced strong conviction that Iran would not hesitate to use a nuclear weapon if it obtained one. “I will tell you that Iran would use the nuclear weapon if they had it," he said. “I deal with these people. I know people. They will use their nuclear weapon, and we’re not going to give them a chance to do it."

The president rejected earlier ideas of allowing Iran access to nuclear material for civilian purposes. “I wouldn’t have approved that. I wouldn’t have. I’m not giving them anything," Trump said. “They’re going to either have a nuclear weapon, or they’re not. And if they do, they’re in big trouble."

Trump highlighted the severe economic difficulties currently facing Iran. “Right now, their economy is collapsing, inflation is at close to 100%," he said. “They can’t do any oil because we have a blockade that’s 100% effective."

He expressed the view that his administration’s approach enjoys broad international support, while criticizing previous leaders and allies for failing to act more decisively. “I actually think it’s very popular what I’m doing," Trump said. “The world is thanking me, because I shouldn’t be the one that’s doing it. Other presidents should have done it long before me, and other countries should have done it."

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office earlier on Thursday that Iran is "dying to make a deal," adding that "hopefully it can be worked out very soon."

Asked about the future of negotiations, Trump replied, "Nobody knows what the talks are except myself and a couple of other people."

"I mean, Iran is dying to make a deal. I can only tell you that. I don't want to get into it, but they got - they cannot be nuclear other than that. But they are," he added.

Trump stressed, “The bottom line is for this world, for our country, but certainly for Israel, the Middle East and Europe, much closer, you cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon."

Trump last weekend cancelled a visit by his envoys to Islamabad for talks with Iran. On Wednesday, he told reporters that efforts to bring an end to the war with Iran are continuing through telephone conversations rather than in-person meetings.

The US President’s comments were made after he rejected Iran’s most recent proposal, telling Axios that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

The Iranian proposal rejected by Trump envisions reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities.

US President Donald Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday that Iran is "dying to make a deal," adding that "hopefully it can be worked out very soon."

Asked about the future of negotiations, Trump replied, "Nobody knows what the talks are except myself and a couple of other people."

"I mean, Iran is dying to make a deal. I can only tell you that. I don't want to get into it, but they got - they cannot be nuclear other than that. But they are," he added.

Trump stressed, “The bottom line is for this world, for our country, but certainly for Israel, the Middle East and Europe, much closer, you cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon."

"They killed 42,000 innocent, non-weapon-carrying people... I'm trying to save that country... This is a rough group, but we have decimated them, and their economy is a disaster. So we'll see how long they hold out," he continued.

Trump last weekend cancelled a visit by his envoys to Islamabad for talks with Iran. On Wednesday, he told reporters that efforts to bring an end to the war with Iran are continuing through telephone conversations rather than in-person meetings.

“We have talks, we’re having talks with them now, and we’re not flying anymore with 18-hour flights every time we want to see a piece of paper," the president said.

“We’re doing it telephonically, and it’s very nice. I make a call, or I have my people make a call, and you know the answer in 15 - I always like face to face, you know, I consider it better," he continued. “But when you have to fly 18 hours every time you want to have a meeting, and you know what the meeting is all about, and you know they’re going to give you a piece of paper that you don’t like before you even leave, it’s ridiculous, and they’ve come a long way."

Trump’s comments were made after he rejected Iran’s most recent proposal, telling Axios that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

The Iranian proposal rejected by Trump envisions reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities.

A US official told Reuters on Monday that Trump is not satisfied with the new Iranian proposal, citing its failure to adequately address Tehran’s nuclear program.

Trump on Thursday was to have received a briefing by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper on fresh plans for possible military action against Iran.

Israel delivered state-of-the-art defensive weaponry to the United Arab Emirates to assist the Gulf state in protecting itself against a heavy wave of Iranian missiles and drones, The Financial Times reported on Thursday.

This assistance marked one of the earliest major instances of defense collaboration between the two countries since they established formal diplomatic relations through the 2020 Abraham Accords, which were facilitated by US President Donald Trump during his first term in office. A regional official quoted in The Financial Times described the move as a clear demonstration of “the value of being Israel’s friend."

According to individuals with direct knowledge of the operation, Israel rapidly transferred a lightweight surveillance system known as Spectro. This equipment enabled UAE forces to identify incoming drones, particularly Iranian-made Shahed models, from distances of up to 20 kilometers.

Israel also supplied a version of its Iron Beam laser-based defense system. The laser is designed to destroy short-range rockets and drones by vaporizing them. Israel had first used the Iron Beam earlier this year to intercept projectiles launched by the Hezbollah terrorist organization from Lebanon. The deployment of both the Iron Beam and Spectro systems to the UAE had not been publicly reported until now.

These defensive systems complemented the Iron Dome air defense battery that Israel had previously provided to the UAE, along with “several dozen" Israeli military personnel to operate the equipment. Additional weapons systems and Israeli personnel were also sent to the Gulf nation. One source noted, “It’s not a small number of boots on the ground."

In addition to supplying hardware, Israel provided the UAE with critical real-time intelligence regarding preparations for short-range missile launches from western Iran that were directed at the emirate. The UAE absorbed the largest share of Iran’s retaliatory attacks during the joint US-Israeli military campaign against the Islamic Republic.

Iran launched more than 500 ballistic missiles and approximately 2,000 drones toward the UAE. The vast majority of these threats were successfully intercepted through a combination of air defense systems, including Israeli-supplied technology, according to The Financial Times.

An IDF officer and noncommissioned officer were moderately injured on Thursday during operational activity in southern Lebanon.

The injuries were caused by an explosive FPV drone launched by the Hezbollah terrorist organization at troops in the area.

The two received initial medical treatment in the field and were taken to a hospital for further treatment. Their families were notified.

At the same time, Hezbollah published an official statement taking responsibility for ten acts of terror against Israel, including the incident in which 12 soldiers were killed in a UAV strike in northern Israel, the strike that killed Sergeant Liem Ben Hamo, and another strike that injured an additional soldier.

Earlier in the evening, the IDF announced that Sergeant Liem Ben Hamo, a 19-year-old Golani Brigade soldier from Herzliya, was killed in combat in southern Lebanon following an explosive drone strike.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m., when the terror organization Hezbollah carried out an explosive drone attack against Israel Defense Forces troops. One of the drones struck a force from Battalion 13 that was operating in an open area near the village of Qantara.

As a result of the direct hit, Sgt. Liem Ben Hamo was killed and another soldier was moderately wounded.

According to assessments, the drone was likely operated using fiber-optic guidance technology - a type of weapon that the IDF has reportedly struggled to intercept in recent weeks along the northern front.

An Air Force helicopter was dispatched to the scene and evacuated the injured to a hospital. The moderately injured soldier is currently hospitalized and his family has been informed of the details of the incident.

Ben Hamo is the 47th casualty from the 13th Battalion in the Golani Brigade since the start of the campaign. He is the third casualty to fall in battles in southern Lebanon in just five days, with the last three cases involving attacks via explosive drones operated by Hezbollah terrorists.

US President Donald Trump commented on the ongoing talks with Iran, noting that "nobody knows what the talks are except myself and a couple of other people. They want to make a deal badly."

He added that "we have a problem because nobody knows for sure who the leaders are. The leaders have been wiped out along with their military."

The Israel Defense Forces has begun scaling down forces in southern Lebanon, with troops from the Paratroopers Brigade redeployed to the Gaza Strip and soldiers from the Nahal Brigade moved to Judea and Samaria.

According to a report by Kan News, the headquarters of both the 98th Division and 162nd Division have also withdrawn from the northern sector, though the move does not involve all brigades.

The Home Front Command chief held an urgent situation assessment following a rocket impact earlier in the Upper Galilee, in the Meron area.

According to a report by Kan News, the possibility is being considered to cancel the mass pilgrimage at Mount Meron on Lag Be'omer, close the site to visitors, and scrap the planned framework.

Following the situational assessment, the Home Front Command defensive guidelines remain unchanged and in effect until Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, at 20:00 PM.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement mourning Golani Brigade fighter, Sgt. Liem Ben Hamo, who fell in battle in southern Lebanon.

"We send our deepest heartfelt condolences to Liem’s family and share in their heavy loss. Liem, of blessed memory, fought courageously and heroically against the terror organization Hezbollah in order to protect the security of Israel.

"I send wishes of speedy recovery to our wounded soldiers, and send strength and support to our fighters in the battlefield who act decisively against any threat to them and to the communities in the North. May his memory be blessed."

IDF soldiers of the 146th Division on Thursday demolished an underground tunnel belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization in the Ras Biyada area.

The tunnel was over 140 meters in length, and more than 24 tons of explosives were used to destroy it.

Inside the tunnel, living quarters, operational shafts, and numerous weapons were located.

According to the IDF, the tunnel had recently been used by Hezbollah terrorists to advance attack plans.

Incoming Air Force Commander Omer Tishler was promoted on Thursday to the rank of Major General ahead of his expected assumption of the role next week.

Tishler, who served as the Air Force Chief of Staff and its deputy commander during the October 7th attack, will succeed the current commander, Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar, during the current sensitive period.

Defense Minister Israel Katz addressed the promotion ceremony and discussed the campaign against Iran and its proxies: "Iran was dealt heavy blows over the past year, blows that set it back years in all areas." He added that the challenges facing the country will continue to grow alongside historic opportunities to change the regional reality.

The Minister stressed the partnership with the United States and noted that President Trump, in coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is leading an effort to ensure that Iran will not be an existential threat.

According to Katz, Israel "supports the effort and gives the needed backing, but we may soon need to act again to ensure that the goals are met."

Katz also addressed the fighting against Hezbollah in Lebanon, noting that the organization has suffered heavy blows over the past two years and during Operation Roaring Lion.

"We will act and destroy all terrorist infrastructure in the security zone up to the Yellow Line, both above and below ground, just as we did in Gaza," the defense minister clarified, adding that Israel will act "to remove threats from the residents of the Galilee and crush Hezbollah’s capabilities throughout Lebanon. We promised security to the residents of the north, and that is what we will deliver."

Directly addressing the incoming commander, Katz said that Tishler must ensure the readiness of the Air Force for any scenario and in any arena, near or far. ‘The State of Israel will not allow its enemies to threaten its existence. We will continue to act with determination, strength, and responsibility to ensure the security of Israel’s citizens for generations.’"

The IDF has cleared for publication that Sergeant Liem Ben Hamo, aged 19, from Herzliya, a combat soldier in the 13th Battalion, Golani Brigade fell during combat in southern Lebanon.

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Defense Minister Israel Katz said at a ceremony awarding the rank of major general to the incoming Air Force commander that Iran has suffered significant damage over the past year, but Israel may need to act again to complete the objectives of the campaign.

A television broadcast in Lebanon deteriorated into a physical altercation after a debate between journalist Tony Boulos and a pro-Hezbollah analyst escalated into accusations of treason, swearing, and bottle-throwing.

During the debate, one accused the other of treason. The other responded by shouting: "Iranian agent, Iranian Agent," adding that he had no authority to call people traitors.

The atmosphere in the studio intensified when the debaters began calling each other a "group of criminals" and other offensive terms. At a certain point, one of the panelists threw a bottle at his opponent, and the debate turned physical until production staff intervened.

US President Donald Trump has responded to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's criticism on US action against Iran.

The President wrote on Truth Social: "The Chancellor of Germany should spend more time on ending the war with Russia/Ukraine (Where he has been totally ineffective!), and fixing his broken Country, especially Immigration and Energy, and less time on interfering with those that are getting rid of the Iran Nuclear threat, thereby making the World, including Germany, a safer place! President DJT."

A short while ago, interceptors were launched toward a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon. The results of the interception are under review.

The target did not cross into Israeli territory. No sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol.

Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has promised that the US will not remain in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a written message, Khamenei wrote, "Today, two months after the beginning of the campaign of aggression by global bullies in the region and America’s disgraceful failure, a new chapter is beginning in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz."

"Iran, through its management of Hormuz, will ensure the security of the Gulf region and eliminate the possibility of exploitation by enemies. The new laws and management of the Strait will bring stability and prosperity to all the peoples of the region," Khamenei added in his message to the Iranian people.

Mohsen Rezaee, an adviser to Mojtaba Khamenei, tweeted, "The siege scenario will fail and Iran will never lose the Strait of Hormuz."

"History will record that the Iranian nation drowned the superpower of the USA in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. The military and diplomatic arenas are advancing together, in coordination with the Leader of the Revolution and with the support of the people."

Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago in several areas in northern Israel, interceptors were launched toward a suspicious aerial target that crossed into Israeli territory. The interception results are under review.

Sirens were activated in accordance with protocol

IDF: In three different incidents earlier today (Thursday), interceptors were launched towards suspicious aerial targets that were identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon. The Israeli Air Force had successfully intercepted the majority of the targets. The interception results of several remaining targets are under review.

The target did not cross into Israeli territory. No sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol.

Twelve IDF soldiers were injured Thursday morning when an explosive Hezbollah UAV detonated in Shomera.

Two of the soldiers suffered moderate injuries, and the rest sustained light injuries.

Soldiers from the haredi Hashmonaim Brigade, who were operating in the area, rushed to assist in evacuating the wounded.

The IDF is examining whether the drone was a fiber-optic-controlled explosive UAV, a type previously used by Hezbollah only in Lebanon, potentially marking its first use inside Israel.

The drone hit an armored vehicle, which caught fire and caused several ammunition shells at the scene to explode. Firefighting forces worked for several hours to bring the blaze under control.

Lebanese sources report that Hezbollah has recently stockpiled a large number of FPV (First Person View) drones as part of its efforts to strengthen its military capabilities. These drones are relatively inexpensive, making them preferable to long-range missiles or RPGs.

The drone is physically connected via a fiber-optic cable directly to its operator’s control station. The cable can extend up to about 10 kilometers, allowing the drone to reach distant targets while avoiding detection and interception by IDF electronic warfare systems.

Troops from the IDF's Alpinist Unit, under the command of the 810th Brigade, completed a targeted operation to destroy Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure in the Mount Dov area.

During the activity, brigade troops and Yahalom Unit troops located and destroyed several staging positions and missile launch positions used by Hezbollah terrorists.

"The IDF will continue to operate against threats posed to Israeli civilians and IDF troops, in accordance with the directives of the political echelon," a military statement warned.

On Wednesday, the Israeli Air Force eliminated five Hezbollah terrorists who were operating in proximity to IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon, posing an imminent threat.

In addition, in two separate incidents on Wednesday, the Hezbollah terror organization launched a number of explosive drones toward IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, south of the Forward Defense Line.

The drones detonated near IDF soldiers. No injuries were reported.

The IDF Spokesperson's Unit reported that on Thursday morning, an unmanned aerial vehicle was shot down in southern Lebanon after Hezbollah launched a surface-to-air missile.

"There is no concern of sensitive information being compromised, and the incident is under investigation," the spokesperson stressed.

Separately, the IDF confirmed that on Wednesday, the Israeli Air Force eliminated five Hezbollah terrorists who were operating in proximity to IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon, posing an imminent threat.

In addition, in two separate incidents on Wednesday, the Hezbollah terror organization launched a number of explosive drones toward IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, south of the Forward Defense Line.

The drones detonated near IDF soldiers. No injuries were reported.

"These incidents constitute a violation of the ceasefire understandings by the Hezbollah terror organization," the IDF warned, stressing that it "will continue to operate to remove threats to Israeli civilians and IDF troops."

Sirens sounded at 8:20 a.m. Thursday morning in 15 communities along Israel's northern border following a potential UAV infiltration from Lebanon.

Shortly afterwards, a loud explosion was heard due to a direct strike in Shomera. A vehicle caught fire, and a pillar of smoke rose from the impact site.

Earlier on Thursday morning, an interceptor was launched toward a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon. The interceptor was visible from northern Israel, arousing concern among parents whose children were already on buses en route to school.

As school buses made their way to pick up children living in the Galilee Panhandle and transport them to schools on Thursday morning, interceptions were see overhead.

No sirens sounded.

Initial reports estimated that the interceptors were launched towards aerial targets threatening IDF soldiers in Lebanon.

Later, the IDF confirmed: "A short while ago, an interceptor was launched toward a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon. The results of the interception are under review."

"The target did not cross into Israeli territory. No sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol."

As school buses made their way to pick up children living in the Galilee Panhandle and transport them to schools on Thursday morning, interceptions were see overhead. No sirens sounded.

It is believed that the interceptors were launched towards aerial targets threatening IDF soldiers in Lebanon.

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US President Donald Trump will be briefed Thursday by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper on fresh plans for possible military action against Iran, Axios reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter.

The briefing underscores that the president is actively weighing the resumption of major combat operations, either to break the current stalemate in negotiations or to deliver a decisive blow before concluding the conflict.

CENTCOM has developed a proposal for a “short and powerful" wave of strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure, with the goal of forcing Tehran back to the negotiating table with greater flexibility on the nuclear issue, three sources with knowledge of the plans told Axios.

A separate option expected to be presented involves seizing control of part of the Strait of Hormuz to restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping. Such an operation could require the deployment of ground forces, one source indicated.

Planners have also revisited the possibility of a special forces mission aimed at securing Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.

US military officials are also preparing for the possibility that Iran may retaliate against American forces in the region in response to the ongoing blockade.

Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Dan Caine is also expected to participate in Thursday’s briefing.

The White House declined to comment on the planned meeting.

The report comes after Trump rejected Iran’s most recent proposal to end the war, telling Axios earlier on Wednesday that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

Trump indicated that, at present, he views the blockade as a more effective tool than direct military action, telling the news website, "The blockade is somewhat more effective than the bombing."

Speaking to reporters later in the day, Trump said that efforts to bring an end to the war with Iran are continuing through telephone conversations rather than in-person meetings.

Speaking from the Oval Office, the president expressed frustration over the lengthy travel required to send American delegations to Islamabad for talks that have so far failed to resolve the conflict.

“We have talks, we’re having talks with them now, and we’re not flying anymore with 18-hour flights every time we want to see a piece of paper," the president told reporters.

“We’re doing it telephonically, and it’s very nice. I make a call, or I have my people make a call, and you know the answer in 15 - I always like face to face, you know, I consider it better," he continued. “But when you have to fly 18 hours every time you want to have a meeting, and you know what the meeting is all about, and you know they’re going to give you a piece of paper that you don’t like before you even leave, it’s ridiculous, and they’ve come a long way."

US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said on Wednesday that US forces successfully redirected 42 commercial vessels attempting to breach the maritime blockade on Iran.

"Today, US forces achieved a significant milestone after successfully redirecting the 42nd commercial vessel attempting to violate the blockade. This is a reflection of the outstanding work America's sons and daughters in uniform are doing to prevent maritime commerce from entering or exiting Iranian ports," Cooper said in a statement.

“Right now there are 41 tankers with 69 million barrels of oil that the Iranian regime can't sell. That's an estimated $6 billion-plus from which Iran's leadership cannot financially benefit. The blockade is highly effective and US forces remain fully committed to total enforcement," he added.

On Tuesday, CENTCOM announced that the US military seized a commercial vessel in the Arabian Sea that was suspected of traveling to Iran.

The operation involved Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit boarding the M/V Blue Star III. The temporary seizure occurred as the US maintains its naval blockade of Iranian ports.

The US naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz officially began in mid-April. President Donald Trump announced the blockade after delegations from Iran and the United States held extended negotiations in Islamabad but failed to produce an agreement.

On Wednesday, Trump rejected Iran’s most recent proposal to end the war, telling Axios that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

Trump indicated that, at present, he views the blockade as a more effective tool than direct military action, telling Axios, "The blockade is somewhat more effective than the bombing."

Last week, CENTCOM seized an Iranian ship, the M/V Touska, which attempted to violate the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine later stated during a Pentagon briefing that the Touska and two other seized ships - the M/T Tifani and M/T Majestic X - remain under American custody.

Mohsen Rezaei, a high-ranking adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, declared on Wednesday that the United States has reached a “complete deadlock" in its dealings with Tehran and issued strong warnings about the consequences of any renewed military conflict.

Rezaei issued the threats while outlining what he described as limited options available to Washington.

“The least costly option for the United States is to accept Iran’s 10 conditions. If the US enters a war, it should expect that we will take a large number of their forces captive," he said, as quoted by Iranian media outlets.

Rezaei suggested that the US might attempt to intensify pressure on Iran through economic measures and a naval blockade while simultaneously trying to create internal unrest within the country.

He predicted that any fresh round of fighting would likely center on Iran’s southern coast, regions surrounding Isfahan, and western parts of the country.

The Iranian official further cautioned that Tehran could be subjected to aerial bombing campaigns and what he termed “assassinations," claiming these represent some of the remaining tools at Washington’s disposal.

Rezaei’s comments came hours after US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s most recent proposal to end the war, telling Axios that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

Trump indicated that, at present, he views the blockade as a more effective tool than direct military action, telling Axios, "The blockade is somewhat more effective than the bombing."

The Iranian proposal rejected by Trump envisions reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities. A US official told Reuters on Monday that Trump is not satisfied with the new Iranian proposal, citing its failure to adequately address Tehran’s nuclear program.

US President Donald Trump told reporters on Wednesday that efforts to bring an end to the war with Iran are continuing through telephone conversations rather than in-person meetings.

Speaking from the Oval Office, the president expressed frustration over the lengthy travel required to send American delegations to Islamabad for talks that have so far failed to resolve the conflict.

“We have talks, we’re having talks with them now, and we’re not flying anymore with 18-hour flights every time we want to see a piece of paper," the president told reporters.

“We’re doing it telephonically, and it’s very nice. I make a call, or I have my people make a call, and you know the answer in 15 - I always like face to face, you know, I consider it better," he continued. “But when you have to fly 18 hours every time you want to have a meeting, and you know what the meeting is all about, and you know they’re going to give you a piece of paper that you don’t like before you even leave, it’s ridiculous, and they’ve come a long way."

Trump’s comments were made after he rejected Iran’s most recent proposal, telling Axios that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

Trump indicated that, at present, he views the blockade as a more effective tool than direct military action, telling Axios, "The blockade is somewhat more effective than the bombing."

The Iranian proposal rejected by Trump envisions reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities. A US official told Reuters on Monday that Trump is not satisfied with the new Iranian proposal, citing its failure to adequately address Tehran’s nuclear program.

On Wednesday, commenting on the current impasse, Trump warned Iran that it had “better get smart soon."

“The question is whether or not they’re going to go far enough, so at this moment, there will never be a deal unless they agree that there will be no nuclear weapons," Trump added.

During the same series of remarks, Trump revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had offered assistance regarding Iran’s enriched uranium during a telephone conversation earlier in the day.

“He would like to be of help. I said, before you help me, I want to end your war," Trump said.

Trump described his conversation with Putin as “very good" and predicted that a resolution to the Ukraine conflict would arrive “relatively quickly."

“He told me he’d like to be involved with the enrichment. He can help us get it," Trump said.

Russia had previously suggested assuming control over Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, similar to its proposed role in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

While Trump did not completely dismiss the possibility of Iran transferring its uranium to Russia, he indicated greater interest in first achieving progress on ending the war in Ukraine.

“I’ve known him a long time. I think he was ready to make a deal a while ago," he said of Putin. “I think some people made it difficult for him to make a deal."

Channel 12 News reported on Wednesday that Israel’s political echelon has conveyed to the United States that it is requesting that negotiations with the Lebanese government be limited to a strict two-to-three-week period, with the goal of reaching a final agreement by mid-May.

Jerusalem argues that Hezbollah’s continued attacks - including the launching of attack drones and firing toward IDF forces and northern communities - are “eroding" the chances of reaching an agreement.

The Israeli position holds that the current situation, in which the IDF is operating under severe restrictions, is severely damaging both Israel’s deterrence and the security of its residents.

Accordingly, the American administration has been informed that if the talks do not yield results within the set timeframe, Israel will ask President Donald Trump for a “green light" to return to its original plan, which includes significantly broader offensive operations.

At present, IDF troops in southern Lebanon are operating under significant operational constraints imposed by the political leadership. The military is currently in a “response mode" and is not initiating new offensive actions. In addition, any operation north of the Litani River requires individual approval from the political echelon, and the IDF has almost entirely refrained from carrying out strikes deep inside Lebanon.

The IDF is warning that these restrictions are allowing Hezbollah to recover both psychologically and militarily, while also placing soldiers in the field at greater risk from explosive drones and direct fire.

US President Donald Trump told the press on Wednesday that the blockade on Iran is "genius."

"The blockade has been 100% foolproof. It shows how good our Navy is, I can tell you that. Nobody is going to play games. We have the greatest military in the world, and I built much of it during my first term-and we’ve been building it since."

The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier will leave the Middle East and return to the US in the coming days, the Washington Post reported.

Following the sirens that were sounded in the area of Misgav Am, the Israeli Air Force successfully intercepted a suspicious aerial target that was launched from Lebanon toward Israeli territory.

In an additional incident, a short while ago an interceptor was launched toward a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon.

The target did not cross into Israeli territory. No sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol.

The IDF announced on Wednesday that IDF troops destroyed more than 30 weapons storage facilities, command centers, and additional infrastructure of the Hezbollah terrorist organization in southern Lebanon over the past two days

Earlier in the day, the Israeli Air Force and the 91st Division struck approximately 20 Hezbollah military infrastructure sites in the areas of Baraashit and Shakra in southern Lebanon.

The strikes targeted weapons storage facilities, command centers, and structures used by the terrorist organization for military purposes.

According to the IDF, Hezbollah used this infrastructure to plan and carry out attacks against IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians, posing a threat to them.

Following the Hostile aircraft infiltration sirens that sounded in the area of Zar'it, the Israeli Air Force successfully intercepted a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon.

The target did not cross into Israeli territory. Sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol.

US President Donald Trump told Axios on Wednesday that he intends to maintain a naval blockade on Iran until Tehran agrees to terms addressing American concerns over its nuclear program.

The President dismissed an Iranian proposal that would have involved reopening the Strait of Hormuz and easing the blockade before resuming nuclear negotiations at a later stage.

Sources familiar with the situation told Axios that US Central Command has prepared a plan involving a limited but intense series of strikes on Iranian targets, aimed at breaking the current stalemate. These strikes would likely focus on infrastructure, after which Washington would seek to bring Iran back to negotiations under increased pressure.

Trump indicated that, at present, he views the blockade as a more effective tool than direct military action, telling Axios, "The blockade is somewhat more effective than the bombing." He has not authorized any strikes as of Tuesday night, according to the report, and declined to elaborate on potential military plans during the interview.

Trump said the blockade is exerting significant pressure on Iran, stating, "They are choking like a stuffed pig," and emphasized that the United States will not allow Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons. "They can't have a nuclear weapon," he said. He added that Iran is interested in reaching an agreement in order to see the blockade lifted, saying, "They want to settle," but reiterated his reluctance to ease the measure under current conditions.

The President also claimed that Iran’s oil infrastructure is under strain due to its inability to export, though some analysts have questioned the immediacy of such risks.

Meanwhile, a senior Iranian security official, quoted by the English-language state outlet Press TV, warned that the naval blockade could provoke a strong response. The official stated that Iran has so far exercised restraint to allow space for diplomacy, but cautioned that continued pressure could lead to retaliatory measures.

The IDF published footage on Wednesday showing how Hezbollah exploits civilian infrastructure to hide weapons.

According to the IDF, earlier in the day, soldiers identified a Hezbollah launcher that had been positioned inside a civilian structure in southern Lebanon, within proximity to IDF soldiers operating south of the Forward Defense Line.

Following the identification, the soldiers struck and dismantled the launcher to remove the threat.

The military noted that the launcher was directed toward Israeli territory and IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, posing an imminent threat to them.

Additionally, in two separate incidents earlier today, Hezbollah launched several explosive UAVs that detonated near IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, south of the Forward Defense Line. No IDF injuries were reported.

"The Hezbollah terrorist organization continues to position terrorist infrastructure within and near to civilian infrastructure in order to advance attacks against the State of Israel and IDF soldiers," the IDF stated.

IDF soldiers, using an armed drone, identified a Hezbollah terrorist operating within proximity to IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, posing an imminent threat to them.

Following the identification, the troops struck and eliminated the terrorist using the drone while he was attempting to flee on a motorcycle.

The IDF reported that overnight, the IDF struck approximately 20 command centers and military structures used by Hezbollah to advance attacks against IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians in several areas in southern Lebanon.

Two months into its war with the US and Israel, Iran is facing a significant transformation in its leadership structure following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at the outset of the conflict.

According to a Reuters report, the Islamic Republic no longer operates under a single, dominant clerical authority, marking a departure from the system that has governed the country since 1979. In place of a centralized leadership, power has increasingly shifted toward senior figures within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and other security institutions.

Mojtaba Khamenei, who was elevated after his father’s death despite being seriously wounded in the initial strikes, formally occupies the highest position. However, individuals familiar with internal discussions indicate that his role is largely limited to endorsing decisions rather than directing policy.

Sources cited by Reuters describe a wartime leadership structure in which authority is concentrated within a smaller group tied to the Supreme National Security Council, the Supreme Leader’s office, and the IRGC. This grouping now plays a central role in both military operations and broader strategic decision-making.

A senior Pakistani official involved in mediation efforts between Iran and the US said the absence of a unified command structure has slowed responses during negotiations. According to the official, it can take several days for Tehran to reply to proposals.

Despite this, analysts quoted by Reuters noted that the main barrier to an agreement is not internal discord, but rather the gap between US demands and the positions held by Iran’s security leadership.

Iran’s diplomatic engagement with Washington has been led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, alongside parliament speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf, who has emerged as a key link between political and security institutions. Meanwhile, IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi has been identified by multiple sources as a central figure in operational and ceasefire-related discussions.

Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly since the start of the conflict and is said to communicate through intermediaries due to security concerns.

Iran recently presented a new proposal to the US envisioning phased negotiations, with the nuclear issue deferred until after the war and maritime disputes are addressed. Washington has maintained that nuclear matters must be part of any initial discussions.

Experts cited by Reuters said both sides currently show limited willingness to compromise, each calculating that time may strengthen its position.

The evolving internal dynamics reflect a broader shift in governance, with security institutions exerting increased influence over policy. Analysts say that while differing views exist, decision-making has consolidated around these bodies, with Mojtaba serving more as a coordinating figure than an independent authority.

The growing role of the IRGC has also strengthened more hardline positions within Iran’s leadership, according to sources familiar with internal deliberations. However, there has been no indication of significant internal divisions or public unrest despite ongoing military and economic pressure.

The current structure suggests that strategic decisions are being driven primarily by security leadership, with a focus on maintaining leverage and managing the conflict without escalation into a broader war.

IDF: Following the sirens that were sounded in several areas in northern Israel, two projectiles that were launched from Lebanon toward Israeli territory were identified. One projectile was intercepted, and the other fell in an open area.

This incident constitutes an additional violation of the ceasefire understandings by the Hezbollah terrorist organization.

Reserve troops from the IDF's 226th Brigade, under the command of the 146th Division, are operating south of the Forward Defense Line to prevent a direct threat to the communities in northern Israel.

During activity, the troops located a booby-trapped pit belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization, containing an explosive device weighing approximately 900 kilograms, intended to harm troops operating in the area.

In an additional activity, the troops located a position belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization containing a stockpile of mortar shells and rockets intended to harm Israeli civilians and troops operating in the area.

"The IDF will continue to operate with determination against threats to Israeli civilians and IDF troops, and is acting in accordance with directives from the political echelon," the IDF stressed in a statement.

IDF: Earlier this week (Monday), IDF soldiers identified two Hezbollah terrorists in the area in which the soldiers are operating, south of the Forward Defense Line, posing an imminent threat. Shortly after, the Israeli Air Force, guided by the soldiers, eliminated the terrorists.

As part of an activity in the area over the past 24 hours, IDF soldiers located and confiscated numerous weapons, including firearms, grenades, magazines, missiles, and military equipment belonging to Hezbollah terrorists.

The IDF continues to operate in order to remove threats to Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers, in accordance with directives from the political echelon.

Multiple hostile aircraft infiltrated Israel from Lebanon on Wednesday morning, as the Hezbollah terror group continues violating a US-declared ceasefire between Israel, Hezbollah, and Lebanon.

Following sirens in Avivim, the Israeli Air Force successfully intercepted a UAV that was launched from Lebanon prior to its crossing into Israeli territory, the IDF confirmed.

"In an additional incident a short while ago, an interceptor was launched toward a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon," the IDF added. "The results of the interception are under review."

"The target did not cross into Israeli territory. No sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol. These incidents constitute a violation of the ceasefire understandings by the Hezbollah terrorist organization."

Shortly afterwards, the IDF reported: "Following the hostile aircraft infiltration sirens that sounded in the area of Metula, an interceptor was launched toward a suspicious aerial target that was identified in the area in which IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon. The results of the interception are under review."

"The target did not cross into Israeli territory. Sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol."

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday morning posted a warning to Iran on social media, promising that there would be "no more Mr. Nice Guy."

In the post, Trump wrote, "Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!" The post featured an AI picture of Trump himself holding a weapon and was captioned, "NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!"